Posted By Viva Sarah Press On December 6, 2011 @ 8:00 am In | No Comments

Tour de France Champion Alberto Kontador is taking part in today’s inaugural Old City of Jerusalem bicycle race. The race will begin with a celebratory lap as Kontador – a member of the renowned Saxo Bank team – rides alongside Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat.

Thirty of Israel’s best riders will take part in the professional race, as will other members of the Saxo Bank team.

“The team members are looking forward to riding in Jerusalem,” said Bjarne Riis, owner of Saxo Bank. “The cyclists have been in competitions in different places around the world, but the race in Jerusalem in the streets of the Old City is especially exciting for them.”

The length of the race is 2.8 km and will pass through the Old City, past the Armenian Quarter, the Western Wall, Dung Gate, Mount Zion, Valley of Hinnom, Sultan’s Pool and back to Jaffa Gate. The riders will complete 10 laps.

The Jerusalem Municipality set up large screens — on which the race will be broadcast – near the Tower of David.